AS A YOUNG PERSON VOLUNTEERING...
If you're a young person in Scotland looking to volunteer, you're in the right place!
This section will take you through the options, benefits, and support available to you.
Getting started....
Many volunteering opportunities can be found on the directories of regional volunteer organisations. Volunteer Scotland has the most up to date list of volunteering opportunities based on location, opportunities and duration.
Reach out to them directly for more information as each organisation or group has different requirements.
Age requirements...
We work with many groups that work with young people from 11 to 25. Young Scot and YouthLink Scotland both offer practical resources and support for young people interested in volunteering.
FAQS
What is the time commitment?
Many organisations and companies provide flexible volunteering opportunities with some placements a few hours a week both mid-week and at weekends. We work closely with many organisations to ensure that they take this flexible approach to youth volunteering, so make sure to check in with individual groups for more details.
Am I too young to volunteer?
Some volunteers we've placed have been as young as 11 years of age, and although the type of volunteering may vary with age - rest assured that there are volunteer opportunities available for everyone. Many of the staff at different organisations are familiar working with younger people and have all sorts of support available.
What are the benefits of volunteering?
From making new friends, to gaining leadership skills and experience in the workplace, the benefits of volunteering are endless. Many of our previous young volunteers have talked about the impact it has had on their social life, skill set and ability to get a job as well as contributing to their local community.
Can I volunteer while studying?
Yes! We completely get that young people will need to pick volunteer opportunities that fit around their commitments. Flexible placements and volunteer opportunities outside the traditional '9-5' time slots of mid-week can be available, including at weekends.
#iWill Changemakers
#iWill Changemakers are young people making a positive difference in their communities and wider society through social action - whether they're just starting out or already taking action.
The Changemaker network is open to individuals aged 10–25 engaged in social action, or groups (a class, group or youth club) working together on a social action initiative, such as raising funds for a local cause.
It's open to young people living in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales. Scottish Changemakers can opt in for Scotland-specific updates.
#iWill Ambassadors
Each year, we recruit young people from across the UK as #iWill Ambassadors. Through social action, Ambassadors inspire other young people to join the Movement and work with partners and organisations to help shape and lead change.
Ambassadors come from diverse backgrounds across the UK, receive training and support, connect with peers locally and nationally, and help shape campaigns and conversations that influence policy, practice and public attitudes.
Applications open annually - sign-ups are currently closed, but you can join the wider community of young changemakers at any time. In Scotland, Ambassadors are supported by YouthLink Scotland and have the opportunity to work with YouthVIP.
